The Anambra State Government has arraigned eight pastors at the Awka High Court under the newly enacted Homeland Security Law, 2025, targeting those allegedly using religious platforms to aid crime. The arraignment took place on Friday, as part of an ongoing crackdown on individuals accused of promoting criminality under the guise of religious activities.
The pastors were brought before the court by operatives of Agunechemba, the state-backed security outfit, led by the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Security, Ken Emeakayi. The defendants are Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma, and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.
Prosecution Led by Attorney General
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), is leading the prosecution on behalf of the Anambra State Government. Details of the specific charges were not immediately available as court proceedings were still ongoing at the time of this report.
This arraignment is the latest development in the Soludo administration's enforcement of the Homeland Security Law, introduced to tackle insecurity, ritual-related crimes, kidnapping, and activities believed to encourage criminal behavior in the state.
Crackdown on Fake Pastors and Spiritualists
In recent months, the state government has intensified actions against individuals described as fake pastors, native doctors, and spiritualists allegedly involved in practices linked to crime and public deception. Governor Soludo had earlier revealed that several suspects were already in custody following investigations by security agencies.
Speaking at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Awka in May, the governor said the government would continue to go after individuals exploiting residents under the guise of religious activities. He stated, "The state has commenced an ongoing crackdown on fake pastors who exploit the vulnerable by preaching the gospel of salvation without the cross. As I speak now, several of them are already in custody and confessing."
The governor maintained that the government's actions were aimed at protecting residents and restoring public confidence in legitimate religious institutions, while warning that anyone found violating the state's security laws would face prosecution. The case is expected to draw significant public attention as the state government continues its campaign against alleged criminal elements operating under religious and spiritual cover.
